Lightning Flywheel.

As much as it should have been, no, it’s not a big hair band from 1983, but it could be the most revolutionary way to finally put lighting in a bottle and power the world.

The concept is simple enough. The technical hurdles seem jumpable.

Step one: Channel lighting to a specific point with high probability.

Done. Scientists studying lighting have been doing this for years now. There are two methods that seem the safest.

One uses a small rocket trailing a thin copper wire behind it attached to ground. Electrical conditions are monitored during storms and when the meters detect the right kind of charge, launch. If you get it right you duplicate what Ben Franklin did with his kite and key. The rocket scenario being much more safe, of course. You can be miles away and launch a rocket remotely.

The second method involves a laser beam jacketed with another laser beam. It shows great promise too. It would be easier, cheaper, more reliable than a rocket. It could also be reloaded/recharged much faster than setting up a salvo of rockets.

Step two: Harness lighting and convert it into kinetic energy.

Not done at all. At least as far as I can find in Google. Everyone so far seems to want to keep the electricity directly from the lightning. A big giant capacitor seems like the go to for most. I disagree. I think this energy should be converted to a much more manageable and easily buildable kinetic form. That form will be a big heavy flywheel. So how do we get it moving? Steam power.

When the lighting strikes it is channeled into a long pipe filled with water vapor/mist mixed with air. When lightning hits, it quickly, explosively will turn the mix of water and air to steam. That steam will push a massive piston that will push the wheel into motion. Perhaps by pushing a “rip cord” of sorts.

Step three: Attach a generator to the flywheel.

A generator can now be engaged, through an RPM regulator, to produce electricity.

TA! DA! The ability to store and use electricity from lighting. Not to mention outgassing that could be stored for later use as well.

Of course, there is much to be ironed out. We’re working on the math. I have a small group of associates interested in helping me work on this but it’s all conceptual.

Thoughts?

Ken D. Orlich

I’ve been a student of technology, politics, science, and entertainment my whole life. Welcome to my dot connecting perspective on it all! Enjoy! Please share. Drop a dime here if you can. Thanks!